Regular exercise improves memory in old age even if taken up in 50s and 60s, research shows

• A UCL study found that exercising once a month can protect memory in a 30-year study
• Study of 1,400 people will monitor participants to see if dementia is delayed

Studies have shown that jogging just once a month is enough to preserve memory later in life, even for couch potatoes who start jogging in their 50s and 60s.

Scientists at University College London (UCL) tracked the exercise habits of 1,400 participants over 30 years.

When each reached the age of 69, volunteers underwent tests to assess memory, attention, language, and verbal fluency.

Those categorized as moderately active, that is, those who participated in physical activity one to four times a month, did better than those who exercised less frequently.

A variety of activities such as badminton, swimming, fitness exercises, yoga, dancing, soccer, jogging, brisk walking, and more for 30 minutes or more count as one exercise session.

Volunteers also completed a questionnaire at five points during the study (36, 43, 53, 60-64, 69 years old). stage.

A majority of the group (1 in 5) said they exercised at least twice a month. Previous research suggests that regular exercise could reduce his risk of developing dementia by a third.

Much of this research has focused on midlife fitness and found benefits for those who exercise the NHS-recommended 150 minutes per week.

But the researchers behind the new study say their results are proving to be a little help, so it’s not too late to start.

Dr. Sara Naomi James, a UCL investigator and principal investigator of the trial, said her study was designed to improve cognition and memory later in life. But it provides evidence to encourage you to stay active.”

Frequent exercise is said to improve blood flow in the brain and increase activity in areas associated with learning and memory.

Dr. James will continue to follow the cohort to assess whether exercise patterns can ultimately delay the onset of dementia.

“I hope this will be the world’s first cradle-to-grave study, where we’ve studied people’s entire lives,” she added.